’Will Be on the Next Plane Home’: Prime Minister Scott Morrison Threatens Novak Djokovic Over Australian Open 2022 Exemption

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently made a strong statement regarding the medical exemption for Novak Djokovic. The Serb announced that he received special medical exemption for the Australian Open 2022. Morrison said the World No. 1 needs to provide sufficient evidence regarding the exemption, otherwise he’ll be “on the next plane home”.

Now, all eyes are on the 20-time Grand Slam champion and his explanation to the Australian government about the exemption. The Australian Open will start on 17th January at Melbourne Park.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison warns Novak Djokovic

There is yet another interesting twist in the story of Novak Djokovic’s participation at the Happy Slam. Despite being granted a medical exemption yesterday for the Australian Open 2022, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has made it clear that Djokovic will have to provide appropriate evidence. He said, “We await his presentation and what evidence he provides us to support that.”

Morrison firmly stated, “If that evidence is insufficient, then he won’t be treated any different to anyone else and he’ll be on the next plane home. There should be no special rules for Novak Djokovic at all. None whatsoever.”

The increase of Covid-19 cases in Australia may be a reason for the Prime Minister’s direct involvement in the matter. Morrison stated that unless Novak provides “sufficient evidence,” he will not be allowed to participate in the Australian Open.

ALSO READ: ‘Would Be Good if Novak Give Some Explanation’: Toni Nadal and Jamie Murray Surprised with Novak Djokovic’s Exemption

Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley’s statement on medical exemption

Tournament director Craig Tiley said that the two-stage exemption process was kept confidential and it will be Djokovic’s decision if he wants to share the reasons publicly.

“We completely understand and empathize with … people being upset about the fact that Novak has come in because of his statements over the past couple of years around vaccination,” stated the CEO after granting the permission.

Do you think Djokovic will reveal the details of his exemption? What’s your take on the matter? Let us know in the comments.

Watch this story: The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club